Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin The concept of being "born into sin" refers to the theological doctrine of original sin, which posits that all human beings inherit a sinful nature due to the transgression of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. This doctrine is rooted in the narrative of Genesis 3, where Adam and Eve's disobedience to God's command resulted in the fall of humanity. As a consequence, sin entered the world, and all their descendants are born with a propensity to sin. Biblical Foundation The doctrine of original sin is primarily derived from several key passages in the Bible. In Romans 5:12 , the Apostle Paul writes, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned." This verse underscores the belief that sin and death are universal conditions passed down from Adam. Psalm 51:5 further illustrates this concept, where David laments, "Surely I was brought forth in iniquity; I was sinful when my mother conceived me." This verse is often cited to support the idea that humans are born with an inherent sinful nature. Theological Implications The doctrine of being born into sin has significant theological implications. It underscores the need for redemption and salvation, as human beings are incapable of achieving righteousness on their own. This inherent sinfulness necessitates divine intervention through Jesus Christ, who, according to Christian belief, provides the means for reconciliation with God. In Ephesians 2:3 , Paul describes humanity's natural state: "All of us also lived among them at one time, fulfilling the cravings of our flesh and indulging its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature children of wrath." This passage highlights the belief that, apart from God's grace, humans are subject to divine judgment due to their sinful nature. Christ's Redemptive Work The New Testament presents Jesus Christ as the solution to the problem of sin. In Romans 5:18-19 , Paul contrasts Adam's disobedience with Christ's obedience: "So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men, so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous." This passage emphasizes the belief that through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection, believers are offered forgiveness and the opportunity to be born again, free from the bondage of sin. John 3:3 records Jesus' words to Nicodemus: "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." This new birth is understood as a spiritual transformation that restores the believer's relationship with God. Practical Considerations The doctrine of being born into sin has practical implications for Christian life and practice. It calls for humility, recognizing one's need for God's grace and mercy. It also emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as the means of salvation. Believers are encouraged to live in accordance with the Spirit, as Paul exhorts in Galatians 5:16 : "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." In summary, the concept of being born into sin is a foundational element of Christian theology, highlighting humanity's need for redemption and the transformative power of Christ's redemptive work. Topical Bible Verses 2 Corinthians 5:17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. Topicalbible.org John 9:34 Psalm 51:5 Library The Same Pope Honorius Also Wrote to the Scots... The Great Privilege of those that are Born of God Guiltless and Without Sin. Old and New Terminology. Regeneration the Work of God. Original Sin How St. Augustine, Being Made a Bishop, Sent to Acquaint Pope ... "That those Grievously Sin who Despise or Neglect God's Gracious ... The Marks of the New Birth John Chapter xv. 24, 25 Resources What does the Bible say about being nosey? | GotQuestions.orgIs being gay a sin? Is it a sin to be gay? | GotQuestions.org What are the implications of God being infinite, unlimited, and unmeasurable? | GotQuestions.org Being: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |